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 Resolutions for 2007-
What makes for a successful resolution? According to health experts at Duke University, setting goals that are realistic and attainable is important. Focus each day on what you are doing right towards reaching your goal and achieving your New Year’s resolution; don’t focus solely on the goal itself. Be sure to reward your small successes along the way.
Add a new fruit or veggie each week.
Dried figs come in two popular varieties, dark Missions and light Goldens; try the Missions one week and the Goldens the next week. Both varieties are sources of soluble and insoluble fiber.
Quick Tip: Place 4 figs in a small microwavable bowl with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a little orange juice. Cover and microwave on medium for about 1 minute. Coarsely chop the figs and stir into hot oatmeal. Makes a great winter breakfast that’s loaded with fiber and may help lower your cholesterol.
Keep a zip top bag of dried fruit handy.
Late morning or early afternoon is often the time people run to the vending machine and grab whatever is available. Instead, enjoy a few sweet, chewy figs, only 100 calories for 4 figs and the high fiber content will help you feel full longer.
 Aim for about 2 cups of fruit and 2 1/2 cups of vegetables each day. Sound like a lot? Don’t worry, add fruits and vegetables little by little throughout the day. Slice fruit into your cereal. Have a glass of juice a couple times a week. Make a large salad with tuna mixed with a dash of curry powder, shredded carrots, celery, coarsely chopped figs and a little light mayo for lunch. Enjoy these recipes that incorporate figs into side dishes and entrees: Sherry Braised Squash with Figs and Rosemary, Fig and Pistachio Couscous, and Pork Medallions with Honey Glazed Figs and Apples.
The Mediterranean style of eating is rich in fruits (like figs), legumes, whole grains, fish and olive oil. The diet of the people of southern Europe has been linked to a lower incidence of heart disease and protection against some cancers, as well as a longer life expectancy. Encouraged by the science backing this simple and tasty way of eating, Oldways, the non-profit group behind the popular Whole Grains Stamp, has said the Mediterranean style of eating will be its next main focus.
According to Oldways, great taste is one of the diet's strong points beyond the scientific  backing it has received. Additionally, the diet pattern is also likely to enjoy considerable popularity because it is non-restrictive. These aspects already place the Mediterranean diet at a significant advantage compared to other diet trends, which often leave consumers craving for more. For more information on Oldways go to www.oldwayspt.org. Try some of the Valley Fig Growers’ Mediterranean-style recipes featured in the recipe section. These include: Mediterranean Fig Kebabs, Chicken Saute with Fig Olive Tapenade and Fresh Tomato Sauce with Beef and Sage Rolled Figs.
 Valentine’s Day, February 14
Often wonder about the origins of Cupid? This popular valentine gentleman is the son of Venus, goddess of love. Cupid is said to be a mischievous boy who goes around wounding both gods and humans with his arrows, causing them to fall in love. This year Valentine’s Day falls on a Wednesday. Celebrate with a few heart healthy and delectable recipes featuring Mission and Golden/Calimyrna figs.
The 2006 crop will be much lower than originally estimated. The current crop estimate is now at 9,600 tons versus an original estimate of 13,300 tons. Normal crop size is around 14,500 tons. The Calimyrna variety sustained the greatest loss and was a disaster. A cool, wet spring, two weeks of extreme temperatures during the summer and early fall rains negatively affected the crop.
It is unknown how the recent extremely cold weather will affect fig trees, since they are dormant. Fortunately for fig growers, the winter weather is not as big a factor as is the weather during the growing and harvesting season. Unlike stone fruits (peaches, plums, nectarines, and cherries), figs do not require chill hours. However, too many hours below 25°F can negatively impact fruit size and quality.
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